Herald Scotland report that a waitress who was told to wear a skirt and make-up so she would be “easy on the eye” for customers has won her claim for sex discrimination. Ms Sandilands, aged 18, was was initially told that the staff dress code was black trousers or a skirt, and a black shirt. But later a manager approached Ms Sandilands and asked her to start wearing a skirt and to wear her hair down, along with make-up, to make her more attractive to customers. She asked what difference her appearance made to her duties, pointing out that as she was handling food it made more sense to tie her hair back. The next day, Ms Sandilands, who was working under a zero hours contract, was told that her services were no longer needed, despite having previously been offered a full-time position. An employment tribunal awarded her just over £3,500 for the injury to her feelings and lost wages.
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This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.